Pennymac
Mortgage

Pennymac Mortgage

FDIC InsuredVerified · May 2026Rate verified by SwitchWize
SwitchWize take
Best for

Borrowers wanting one lender for conventional, government-backed, jumbo, or equity loans.

Avoid if

Rate shoppers needing transparent, published rates before engaging with a loan officer.

Main catch

This page is a product-menu overview, not a rate sheet — Pennymac publishes zero specific mortgage rates here, requiring every borrower to request a custom quote before any meaningful comparison is possible. That opacity is a real friction point in a rate-sensitive environment where the Fed Funds Rate sits at 3.63% and mortgage shoppers are acutely cost-conscious. The breadth of loan types is genuine: nine distinct products covering first-time buyers (FHA, 3% down Conventional), zero-down VA, jumbo up to $3 million, and a Home Equity Loan for borrowers preserving an existing low rate. That range is competitive with the largest national mortgage originators. However, SwitchWize's database shows that top-ranked lenders in the mortgage category are increasingly publishing live or daily-refreshed rate tables, making it easier for borrowers to shortlist without a sales call. Pennymac's rate transparency lags that standard. The USDA Streamline's appraisal waiver and FHA's streamline option are legitimately valuable for existing-loan borrowers. Until Pennymac publishes rates on-page, treat this as a loan-type discovery tool only — then use SwitchWize's live rate database to benchmark any quote you receive.

What to verify before applying

Request a Loan Estimate (federal form) to compare the full APR, not just the rate. Confirm all origination fees and closing costs.

Last checked

May 2026

Data source

SwitchWize Research Desk · methodology

Pros
  • No monthly maintenance fee
Account Features
Loan Types AvailableConventional Fixed, FHA, VA, ARM, Jumbo, USDA Streamline, Home Equity, Investment Property, Second Home
Conventional Min Down PaymentAs little as 3%
VA Min Down PaymentAs low as 0% for eligible borrowers
Second Home Min Down PaymentAs little as 10% for eligible buyers
Jumbo Max Loan AmountUp to $3 million
Conventional Loan Terms10 to 30 years (flexible)
ARM Introductory Period5–10 years fixed before adjustment
Mortgage InsuranceNot required with 20% down / 80% LTV on Conventional loans
FHA Streamline RefinanceAvailable — lower your rate quickly
USDA Streamline AppraisalAppraisal not required for USDA Streamline Refinance
Published APY/RateNot displayed — custom quote required
Rate Quote ToolInstant customized quote available online with estimated monthly payments
Fees
Loan Fees (general)Not disclosed on page — see Pennymac Fees page or request quote
Requirements
ConventionalGood or excellent credit; as little as 3% down
FHALess-than-perfect credit accepted; low down payment options available; easier to qualify
VAEligible military service members and veterans only
JumboStrong financial position, exceptional credit, low debt-to-income ratio required
Investment PropertyStrong financial standing and healthy cash reserves required
Second HomeMust be single-unit, non-owner-occupied, not intended for rental income; 10% min down for eligible buyers
USDA StreamlineMust have an existing USDA loan; relaxed FICO and DTI requirements apply
GeneralAll loan programs subject to borrowers meeting appropriate underwriting conditions; not all property types qualify; not available in all states
How to Open

Request a custom rate quote online or call 866-549-3583 to speak with a loan officer. You can also submit your contact information on the site to schedule a callback. Pre-approval is available as a first step for purchase borrowers.

The SwitchWize Take

This page is a product-menu overview, not a rate sheet — Pennymac publishes zero specific mortgage rates here, requiring every borrower to request a custom quote before any meaningful comparison is possible. That opacity is a real friction point in a rate-sensitive environment where the Fed Funds Rate sits at 3.63% and mortgage shoppers are acutely cost-conscious. The breadth of loan types is genuine: nine distinct products covering first-time buyers (FHA, 3% down Conventional), zero-down VA, jumbo up to $3 million, and a Home Equity Loan for borrowers preserving an existing low rate. That range is competitive with the largest national mortgage originators. However, SwitchWize's database shows that top-ranked lenders in the mortgage category are increasingly publishing live or daily-refreshed rate tables, making it easier for borrowers to shortlist without a sales call. Pennymac's rate transparency lags that standard. The USDA Streamline's appraisal waiver and FHA's streamline option are legitimately valuable for existing-loan borrowers. Until Pennymac publishes rates on-page, treat this as a loan-type discovery tool only — then use SwitchWize's live rate database to benchmark any quote you receive.

Common Questions
What is the difference between a mortgage interest rate and APR?

The interest rate is what the lender charges to borrow the principal. APR (annual percentage rate) folds in lender fees, origination charges, and points into one comparable number. Always compare APR when shopping lenders — a low rate with high fees can cost more than a slightly higher rate with lower fees.

What credit score do I need to qualify?

Most conventional mortgages require a minimum 620 FICO score; FHA loans allow as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Higher scores unlock lower rates — a 40-point difference can shift your rate by 0.25–0.50%.

How long does mortgage underwriting take?

Most purchases close in 30–45 days from application; refinances typically take 30–60 days. A pre-approval (full credit and income check) can be done in 1–3 business days at most lenders.

Rates are sourced from Bankrate and verified by SwitchWize. SwitchWize may earn a referral fee when you click through to a partner. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Verify current rates directly with the institution before opening an account.